MEGADETH’s classic “Rust In Peace” lineup prior to he making of the band’s latest album, “Dystopia”. Ellefson and MEGADETH leader Dave Mustaine tried to re-team with drummer Nick Menza and guitarist Marty Friedman for a new album and tour, but instead ended up recording the LP with MEGADETH’s latest additions, Brazilian guitarist Kiko Loureiro, best known for his work with ANGRA, and LAMB OF GOD drummer Chris Adler.
“There was always this calling from our fans to revisit the ‘Rust In Peace’ lineup, which we had all moved on from, including those former members,” Ellefson said. “So, we all had a meeting. Had a discussion. We even did a little bit of playing together. And we realized that it would be better to remain friends and leave that legacy sit as the heroic memory that it is in the minds of so many of our fans. It was clear — the past is the past. We’re going to let that truly rest in peace, if you will. No pun intended.“
He added: “What’s really cool about ‘Dystopia’ is that fans used to always clamor for things of the past. Those days seem to be over. I think we finally transitioned past that. MEGADETH has been reborn.“
